Villa Park Holds Off Katella’s for Victory

Villa Park survived a late comeback attempt and held on to beat visiting Katella, 34-26, Friday night in Orange.

The Spartans (1-1) appeared to have control of the game when Marquis Colvin scored on a 26-yard run with 1:47 left to play, giving Villa Park a 14-point lead.

But after taking over on its own 24 with 1:26 left, Chris Haller hit Al Williams with a 76-yard touchdown pass to pull the Knights to within 8.

Bryce Tackett’s extra-point try was blocked, however, and Villa Park recovered the ensuing onside kick and ran out the clock.

Despite the victory, Villa Park Coach Pat Mahoney was not entirely pleased with his team’s effort, especially in the first half when the Spartans were unable to stop the Knights’ rushing attack led by Bryan Jeffrey.

“A lot of our kids don’t know how to practice,” Mahoney said. “We have enough talent to put a good team together, but the kids have to get serious about preparation.”

The Spartans took the lead for good at 27-20 on a one-yard run by Daniel Munoz early in the second half.

From there, Villa Park was able to control Jeffrey, who finished the night with 28 carries for 143 yards and a pair of first-half touchdowns.

Jeffrey’s first score came on a five-yard run six seconds into the second quarter.

He then scored from 28 yards out with 7:25 left in the first half. That score gave Katella a 14-7 lead.